children

Moving here is a wonderful adventure, however, you may not have your normal support network of friends, family, familiar stores, familiar surrounding. Try to make it an adventure. (See Activities with Children)

You are not alone. Try to meet others in a similar situation so you can exchange tips and information and build a new international social network.

​German Toddlers’ Groups in GenevaToddlers’ groups and PEKiP-groups in German as well as a nature/wood playgroup in German and French for 0 to 3-year-olds. Also offers for German-speaking mums such as monthly dinner meetings or Aerobic.

BirthFranceExpatica has a clearly written explanation of the birth process in France.

SwitzerlandExpatica has a clearly written explanation of the birth process in Switzerland.Hôpital de Genève, Clinique Grangettes and La Hôpital de la Tour all have very nice maternity wards and care. You can find their contact information on our Hospitals page.

After the birth, mothers stay in the hospital or clinic for up to seven days, and once the mother and child return home, a nurse or midwife (sages femmes Geneva and France) makes home visits to check on their health and answer questions.

Health insurance coverage is compulsory by the time an infant is three months old, so parents should contact their insurance company as soon as possible after the birth. Certain parents may qualify for a child allowance from their employer, so they must also be informed as soon as possible as well.

It's also advised to enroll at a creche after the first trimester. Waiting lists are long, so it's never too early.